Edward Lawrence Roach Jr.

Edward Lawrence Roach, Jr. 90, of Traverse City, passed away Thursday, January 11, 2018 at Grand Traverse Pavilions in Traverse City.

Ed was born on Saturday, September 3, 1927 to the late Marguerite Rosalie (Fontana) and Edward Lawrence Roach, Sr. in Detroit. Ed served our country in the U. S. Navy. On Saturday, April 19, 1952, in Detroit, he married the former Barbara Kay Wheeland.

Ed and Barbara made their home in the Detroit area where Ed was employed by General Motors as a photographer in the safety and research department. Ed was a very active member of St. Patrick Catholic Church here, where he served on the council and was a counter. He also belonged to the Men's Club, enjoyed working on the pancake breakfasts and was a member of the Knights of Columbus. Ed was a Munson volunteer for more than 15 years and also volunteered at the Traverse Area District Library, assisting in repairing tapes. He enjoyed working on his investments, his photography and fishing.

Ed is survived by his wife of 67 years, Barbara; children Lawrence (Sandra) Roach of Southgate, Suzanne Morrison of Traverse City, Thomas (Kitty) Roach of Ypsilanti, Karen (Dillard) McBride of Manton, Mary Beth (Charles Gray) Roach of Lincoln Park; grandchildren, John Scott Morrison, Sarah Sladek, Mary Roach, Kristina Wears, Meggie Roach, Ysabel McBride, Telsa McBride and Phoebe McBride. Also surviving are 6 great grandchildren and a daughter in law, Beth Roach of Auburn Hills. Ed was preceded in death by his parents, son Kevin, a brother James and sister, Rosemary.

Visitation will take place Monday, January 15 from 5 until 7 p.m. at The Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home with the Rosary being prayed at 7 p.m. by Deacon Rene Hoenscheid. Visitation will take place at St. Patrick Catholic Church at 10 a.m. Tuesday, January 16 followed by the Funeral Mass at 11 a.m.. Father Greg McCallum will preside. Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Patrick Catholic Church.